How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2)
Shop parts for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a complete, safe, model-specific procedure to replace and bleed the brake fluid on the 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2). Follow every step and safety note exactly. Use only DOT 4 brake fluid unless you confirm a different spec in your owner's manual or replacement master cylinder instructions.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (clean, unopened bottle)
- Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate wrench for caliper bleeder valves (typically 8mm or 10mm)
- Line wrench for banjo bolts if removing hoses
- Clear vinyl tubing to fit bleeder valve
- Brake fluid collection bottle or jar
- Hand vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder (recommended for speed & cleanliness)
- Turkey baster or syringe (for master cylinder fluid removal)
- Clean rags and brake-clean spray
- Latex or nitrile gloves and eye protection
- Jack stands or ramps and wheel chocks
- Torque wrench (for caliper bolts, banjo bolts, master cylinder cover bolts)
Model-specific notes for the 2013 TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2)
- The TRX500 FM2 uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear with a combined braking system; bleeding order and careful fluid management are important to avoid introducing air into the ABS/combined system components.
- The master cylinder reservoir is mounted on the handlebar area and uses a rubber diaphragm and plastic cover held by screws & clips. Inspect the rubber diaphragm for age cracks and replace if brittle.
- Power steering hydraulic system is separate from the brake system on this model; do not mix fluids or attempt to service power steering with brake fluid.
- Factory torque specs: follow Honda specifications when reassembling banjo bolts and caliper bolts to avoid leaks or warped components.
- ABS sensors and combined-valve plumbing can trap air. For best results use a pressure bleeder or a two-person squeeze method working from the caliper furthest from the master cylinder first.
Preparation
- Park on level ground, engage park/gear, and chock the wheels.
- Clean the master cylinder cover area to prevent contamination when opening the reservoir.
- Wear gloves and eye protection. Brake fluid damages paint & plasticscover painted surfaces where fluid may drip.
- If fluid is dark or contaminated, flush the system completely; if only minor discoloration, bleed until clear fluid appears.
Step 1 – Access the master cylinder
- Remove the master cylinder cover screws and lift the plastic cover. Remove the rubber diaphragm carefully.
- Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most of the old fluid from the reservoir. Do not let the reservoir run dry if you are not ready to immediately refill.
Step 2 – Top up with fresh DOT 4
- Add new DOT 4 fluid to the reservoir until it reaches the max mark. Keep the cap off only as long as needed to avoid moisture absorption.
Step 3 – Choose a bleeding method
- Recommended: pressure bleeder attached to the master cylinder reservoir for one-person, clean bleeding.
- Alternative: two-person manual bleed using clear tubing on the bleeder valve leading to a bottle partially filled with old fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- If using vacuum or hand pump, use short pulses rather than continuous hard pulls to avoid collapsing the caliper piston boots.
Step 4 – Bleeding order
For the FM2 combined brake system, follow this general order to minimize air in the hydraulic circuits:
- Rear caliper furthest from master cylinder (usually rear left)
- Rear caliper closest to master cylinder (rear right)
- Front caliper furthest from master cylinder (usually front left)
- Front caliper closest to master cylinder (front right)
If you encounter a combined-valve or proportioning valve, consult the service manual for valve-specific procedures. When in doubt, use a pressure bleeder to ensure fluid flows through internal passages.
Step 5 – Bleeding procedure
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder valve and submerge the other end in fluid in a catch jar.
- Open the bleeder valve one-quarter to one-half turn. If using a pressure bleeder, pressurize to the recommended value (not exceeding 15 psi).
- Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal to the floor and hold it, or let the pressure bleeder push fluid through.
- Close the bleeder valve, then allow the pedal to return. Repeat until the fluid runs clear and bubble-free from that caliper.
- Keep the master cylinder reservoir topped off during the entire process to prevent air entry.
- Move to the next caliper and repeat following the bleeding order.
Step 6 – Final steps & checks
- When all calipers bleed clear, tighten bleeder valves to spec and clean any spilled fluid.
- Top off the master cylinder to the max line, reinstall rubber diaphragm and cover, and torque cover screws to spec.
- Pump the brake pedal a few times with the engine off, then with the engine running to confirm firm pedal feel. Repeat bleeding if pedal is soft or spongy.
- Inspect caliper mounting hardware, brake lines, and banjo bolt crush washers for leaks. Replace crush washers when removing banjo bolts.
- Dispose of old brake fluid properly. Do not reuse or dump on the ground.
Troubleshooting & safety tips
- If pedal remains soft after thorough bleeding, check for master cylinder internal leaks or air trapped in combined-valve components. Replace the master cylinder if necessary.
- Do not reuse contaminated fluid. Brake fluid is hygroscopic; once opened it can absorb moisture and reduce boiling point.
- Avoid getting DOT fluid on painted plastics. Clean spills immediately with water and dry; some plastics may be permanently stained.
- If unsure about the combined braking system behavior on this FM2 model, consult a qualified technician. Improper bleeding can compromise braking safety.
Maintenance interval guidance
- Replace brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if fluid is dark, contaminated, or if the vehicle is used in harsh conditions (mud, water crossings, heavy towing).
- Inspect rubber hoses & banjo fittings annually for cracking or seepage. Replace any fatigued components to prevent sudden failure.
Following this MotoSport procedure will ensure safe, clean replacement and bleeding of the brake fluid on your 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2). Maintain cleanliness, use DOT 4, and verify pedal firmness before every ride.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Foreman 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM2) ATV.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.